Barefoot Archives - The Paleo Network

Vibrams and Evening Gowns

Well, I've never considered wearing mine with an evening dress – but it’s great to see Shailene Woodley wearing Vibrams at a high-profile event! How do you wear yours?

When you think of red carpet fashion, the first things that spring to mind are usually towering high heels, dazzling jewels, and the kind of footwear that prioritises glamour over comfort. So it’s no surprise that actress Shailene Woodley caused quite a stir when she chose to pair her evening gown with — of all things — Vibram FiveFingers.

Yes, really. Vibrams. The minimalist toe shoes more often associated with ultramarathoners, CrossFit die-hards, and committed Paleo enthusiasts than with haute couture. But that’s exactly what makes this moment so interesting — and so affirming for those of us who prioritise foot health and functional movement over fashion trends.

Why Vibrams?

If you’ve never tried them, Vibram FiveFingers might seem odd at first glance. They’re lightweight, flexible, and designed to mimic the experience of walking barefoot — while offering just enough protection from the elements. Many people who transition to minimalist footwear report better posture, improved balance, stronger foot muscles, and a much more “natural” gait.

For those following a Paleo or ancestral lifestyle, the appeal is clear: just as we’ve moved away from modern processed food and back to nutrient-dense whole foods, we can also reconsider our footwear. After all, humans didn’t evolve to wear stiff, elevated, padded shoes. We evolved to walk, run, and move freely — barefoot or as close to it as possible.

Shailene Woodley: Hollywood’s Unlikely Vibram Ambassador

Shailene Woodley has long been known for her interest in natural living. From eating clay (yes, really) to foraging for her own herbs and using spring water, she’s made headlines before for her alternative lifestyle choices. So perhaps it shouldn’t be that surprising that she would embrace barefoot shoes — even at a formal event.

But what makes her choice so significant is that it challenges a major cultural assumption: that beauty means discomfort, and that fashion must come before health. By wearing Vibrams on the red carpet, Woodley didn’t just start a conversation — she made a statement.

Can You Really Wear Vibrams Everywhere?

Let’s be honest. Most people don’t feel ready to wear Vibrams to a wedding or a cocktail party. But why not? If you’ve made the switch to minimalist shoes in your day-to-day life, it feels pretty unnatural to squeeze your feet into stilettos or formal loafers for the sake of appearances.

Personally, I wear my Vibrams for training, hiking, beach walks, and any time I’m travelling. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and I love the way they connect me to the ground. I haven’t yet had the guts to wear them to a wedding or gala — but Shailene might have just given me the nudge I needed!

What to Expect When You Transition to Minimalist Shoes

1. Start slow. Wear them for short walks at first, then gradually increase your time. Jumping into a long hike or run right away is a recipe for sore calves — or worse.
2. Focus on form. Pay attention to how you walk and run. You’ll likely shift to more of a midfoot or forefoot strike rather than a heel strike.
3. Strengthen your feet. Try foot exercises like toe spreads, arch lifts, and calf raises to build strength and mobility.
4. Be prepared for comments. Vibrams are attention-grabbing. Whether it’s curiosity, confusion, or admiration, people will comment. Be ready with your Paleo-inspired talking points!

Minimalist Shoes and Paleo: A Natural Fit

For those of us who embrace an ancestral lifestyle, minimalist footwear is just one more way to reconnect with the way our bodies were designed to function. The Paleo diet focuses on real food, natural movement, quality sleep, and reducing environmental stressors. Your feet are a huge part of that equation.

Modern shoes can contribute to everything from bunions and plantar fasciitis to poor posture and back pain. By contrast, barefoot-style shoes allow the feet to move and strengthen naturally — just as nature intended.

Social Norms vs. Functional Footwear

The fashion industry is slowly catching on, but we’re not quite at a place where minimalist shoes are the norm. There’s still a strong cultural pressure to wear “acceptable” footwear — even when it’s bad for us.

Shailene’s choice to defy those norms opens up a larger question: what are we sacrificing for style? And how many other health decisions do we make simply to fit in?

If you’re living Paleo, you’re already thinking differently about food, movement, and health. Why not shoes too?

Choosing the Right Minimalist Shoe

If Vibrams aren’t your style, there are plenty of other options. Some of the most popular barefoot-style brands include:

Vivobarefoot – a more stylish minimalist option, great for work and casual wear
Xero Shoes – known for their sandals and huarache-inspired designs
Lems – minimalist shoes with a little more cushioning, great for transitioning
Wildling Shoes – a soft, flexible shoe with natural materials and unique style
Feelgrounds – sleek, casual barefoot shoes that don’t scream “hippie runner”

Find a style that works for you — and challenge yourself to wear them in more settings. You might be surprised how liberating it feels.

My Vibrams and Me

So, no — I haven’t worn my Vibrams with an evening dress. Yet. But I’ve worn them to BBQs, on hikes, on planes, and to the supermarket more times than I can count. I’ve climbed rocky headlands and walked across sand dunes in them. They’ve been packed into every suitcase I’ve travelled with over the past five years.

They make people stop and ask questions. And that, to me, is a good thing. They open the door to conversations about ancestral movement, natural health, and why barefoot might just be the way forward — in every sense.

Your Turn

Have you embraced minimalist shoes yet? What’s the weirdest place you’ve worn your Vibrams? Would you wear them with a formal outfit? Or do you think some situations still call for “normal” shoes?

Let me know in the comments — and tag me if you spot any other celebs rocking the barefoot look.

A Royal Vibram Fan?

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Apparently Prince Harry has just bought some Vibram Five Fingers in California!

It’s great to see the increase in popularity of the VFF’s. I can’t wait for the day they become more mainstream. I still get so many funny looks wearing my Vibrams around Sydney. Some people even comment about how they must be damaging my feet, which is especially amusing, as I have the exact same thought about their feet in the cushioned, padded, arched trainers they insist on wearing.

Do you think in a few years time EVERYONE will be wearing vibrams?

Why Prince Harry (and You) Might Want to Wear Vibrams

It’s not every day a royal makes a move that aligns with the barefoot running crowd, but Prince Harry’s rumoured purchase of Vibram FiveFingers in California got me thinking. What does it mean when one of the world’s most recognisable figures is spotted in minimalist footwear? Perhaps the barefoot revolution is more than just a fringe movement – maybe it’s inching its way into the mainstream, one princely step at a time.

So let’s talk about why these “funny-looking toe shoes” deserve your attention – and why more people, famous or not, are embracing them.

What Are Vibram FiveFingers?

If you're new to the concept, Vibram FiveFingers are minimalist shoes designed to mimic barefoot movement while offering protection from modern terrain (think broken glass, heat-soaked footpaths, and sharp gravel). Each toe has its own compartment, allowing your foot to move naturally – just as nature intended.

They’re used for running, walking, CrossFit, hiking, weight training, water sports – and, in the case of some Paleo followers, even with evening gowns or wedding attire (yes, really).

The Paleo Connection: Why Barefoot Makes Sense

A lot of people in the Paleo community adopt Vibrams as a logical extension of their ancestral lifestyle. If you believe in eating like your hunter-gatherer ancestors, it also makes sense to move like them – and that includes ditching cushioned trainers with artificial arch support.

Paleo is all about returning to a more natural way of living, and footwear is a huge part of that. Our feet weren’t designed to be stuffed into narrow, rigid shoes that immobilise the toes and promote poor posture. Vibrams, and other barefoot-style footwear, allow the foot to move, flex, and grip as it was meant to.

Benefits of Minimalist Footwear

Stronger Feet
Wearing Vibrams helps strengthen the small muscles in the feet and ankles. These muscles tend to weaken in traditional footwear, especially those with arch support or high heels.
Better Posture
Without an artificially raised heel, minimalist shoes encourage a more upright stance and natural gait. Many people report relief from back pain and joint discomfort after switching.
Improved Proprioception
Feeling the ground beneath your feet enhances proprioception – your body’s awareness of its position and movement. This is critical for balance, coordination, and injury prevention.
Relearning How to Run
Most runners land heel-first when wearing cushioned trainers. But barefoot running encourages a forefoot or midfoot strike, which reduces impact and may lower injury risk.
Freedom & Sensory Feedback
There’s something uniquely grounding about feeling the earth as you move. It’s almost meditative – especially when walking outdoors.

Why Don’t More People Wear Them?

Despite their growing popularity, Vibrams are still not universally accepted – largely because of how they look. Let’s be honest: they’re not exactly subtle.

But that’s changing. More athletes, adventurers, biohackers, and health-conscious individuals are embracing function over fashion. And as people begin to question mainstream narratives around diet and movement, the stigma around barefoot shoes is eroding.

Even major brands have jumped on the bandwagon, releasing their own versions of minimalist shoes – although few match the foot-feel of Vibrams.

Common Misconceptions About Vibrams

They’re bad for your feet.
Only if you jump into them too fast. Like anything, they require a transition. Your feet need time to adapt, especially if you’ve been in structured shoes your whole life.
They offer no support.
True – but that’s kind of the point. Your feet are designed to support themselves. Weak feet often result from relying on external support.
They’re just for running.
Nope. They’re great for hiking, strength training, walking, yoga, and even casual wear (if you’re brave enough!).

Transitioning to Vibrams: Do It Slowly

If you’re curious about trying them, start slow. Wear them around the house or during short walks. Increase duration gradually and pay attention to how your feet and calves feel – you’re likely using muscles that have been dormant for years.

For runners, start with just a few hundred metres at a time. Many people overdo it initially and end up with sore calves or strained tendons. It’s not the shoes — it’s just that the movement pattern is new.

Also, don’t toss your old shoes just yet. The transition can take weeks or even months.

Vibrams in Australia

While Vibram FiveFingers aren’t yet as common in Sydney or Melbourne as they are in parts of the US or Europe, the Australian barefoot community is steadily growing.

Shops like Wild Earth, KMD Brands, and Barefoot Inc. stock Vibrams locally, and there are growing Facebook groups for barefoot runners and primal health enthusiasts down under.

If you’re in one of the major cities, you may even spot someone – besides yourself – in toe shoes. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll spot someone royal.

What I Love About My Vibrams

Here’s what I've personally found from wearing Vibram FiveFingers around Sydney:

People will stop and ask you about them – great way to spread the barefoot gospel!
You become more mindful of your gait and posture.
They're incredibly light – perfect for travel and minimal packing.
Once you get used to them, regular shoes feel like moon boots.
They’re surprisingly durable – mine have lasted years with heavy wear.

Paleo, Minimalism & Conscious Living

Wearing Vibrams isn’t just about feet. It’s part of a broader philosophy that questions modern norms. Just as Paleo challenges our approach to food, minimalist footwear challenges our approach to movement.

These shifts – in what we eat, how we move, how we sleep, and even how we think – are about alignment. Alignment with biology, evolution, and what makes us feel alive.

Whether you’re just starting out with Paleo or years into the lifestyle, trying something like Vibrams can be a great reminder that health isn’t just in the kitchen – it’s in every step you take.

Will Vibrams Ever Become Mainstream?

Honestly, I don’t know. But ten years ago, the Paleo diet was considered extreme too – and look how far it came.

If more people experience the benefits firsthand – and if the stigma dies down – it’s entirely possible that toe shoes could be as normal as Birkenstocks or Crocs (which were also once controversial!).

And if Prince Harry wears them, who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see minimalist footwear at the Met Gala.

Over to You

Have you tried Vibrams or other barefoot shoes? Did you love them – or hate them? What’s been the biggest surprise in switching away from traditional footwear?

Leave a comment below and share your story – or let me know where you stand on the barefoot spectrum. Are you 100% minimalist or still somewhere in the transition?

Let’s keep walking the barefoot path – one toe at a time.

My Daily Commute

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When Mark’s Daily Apple launched this video competition, it seemed like the perfect excuse to learn some new Mac skills, after buying my first ever MacBook Pro a couple of weeks ago. I’d been thinking about making a video of my commute into work, as the sun rises behind the Sydney Opera house, whilst I run/ walk over the Harbour Bridge. Perhaps with a cruise liner going under the bridge, at the exact same time I ran over it. Yeah, didn't happen like that. By the time I found my camera I completely missed the sunrise and the weather was terrible.

So, let me know what you think of my first ever video!

I think walking is one of the best forms of exercise there is. For me, walking to work is perfect. There are no excuses or putting it off – I have to get to work, I have to walk! My commute is 4.6km (2.9 miles), each way, so door to desk, via shower, it is well under an hour. I'm increasing the amount I wear my Vibrams each week too, I'm almost up to every day. If I were to get the bus, by the time I've waited around for a bus, it wouldn't be that much quicker – not to mention the unpleasantness of buses at rush hour. On the way into work it’s mainly downhill and I often run. I've got particularly bad at needing to overtake EVERYONE in front of me. I used to walk most of the way home, but since I've upped the fat in my diet, and decreased the carbs, I often have so much energy I feel compelled to run. Even after a long day at work. Crazy!

Another huge benefit I see in walking, particularly in the summer, is that I get a lot of sun exposure – but not the intense midday sun. Great for keeping my Vitamin D levels topped up. I also really enjoy the time to just be mindful and enjoy the fresh air and scenery, or listen to music and podcasts. I wouldn't swap this part of my day for anything!

Before I moved to Australia, my commute used to be 19 miles, in a car, on a motorway in the UK. It doesn't get much less Primal than that!

In addition to walking, I also do high intensity intensity training two or three times a week, with my fantastic PT, Karl. In the year since I started these sessions, my strength and fitness have improved significantly. I’m making slow, but steady progress in my push-up and chin-up ambitions! I will master the unassisted chin-up, I will!

What does your fitness look like? Do you walk to work too?

How to Get Cheap Vibrams

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As I explained in my previous post, I love running barefoot, in VFFs.

My Vibrams – I've got a pair of pink Treksports and black Classics. So far.

When I was in America for PrimalCon & the AHS this year, I was so shocked to see how cheap Vibrams were, compared to here in Australia. I bought two pairs, the Treksport in pink from a big outdoors store in Texas and a pair of Classics in black from another store in San Francisco. Each pair worked out at well under $100 AUD, including taxes. Not only were they cheaper, but the stores stocked so many different models, colours and sizes. I should have bought more. It takes going overseas to realise how expensive things are in this part of the world.

The bigger sports shops in Sydney seem to carry just a few models, and you can forget about getting them in exciting colours. The bigger Rebel Performance stores sell a small selection, for upwards of $169.99 AUD, which is a lot of extra money to pay, especially for a small selection.

Vibrams can be expensive in Australia

I bought my first pair of Vibrams on Ebay last year. I carefully researched the model and tried an equivalent pair on in the city, to make sure I ordered exactly the right size. I still paid about $100, so not that much of a bargain. They arrived and I was instantly disappointed with Vibrams in general. The toes were all the same length – meaning only my big toe would fit properly. The top of my other toes didn’t even reach the bottom of toe section! I initially assumed this was just how they made them, perhaps I had freaky toes, as they weren’t all the same length? On close inspection it became apparent that the box and literature in the box was quite odd too. It was upside down and back to front. I think I probably spent my hard earned cash on a pair of fake Vibrams. So my word of warning is be really careful where you buy them from. If you buy them online, be sure they are genuine!

Luckily I wasn’t put off and after meeting so many VFF owners at PrimalCon I soon realised how they were supposed to fit and behave. I bought my next two pairs earlier this year. The difference is incredible! They are an amazing fit. Wearing them feels as close to barefoot as I’m realistically likely to get in the city centre.

Prices generally do seem to be coming down in Australia. I found a sale today at the Adventure Mega Store in Sydney CBD selling VFF’s starting at $99, which seems to be a great deal (but I'd love to find a better price in this country). They had by far the largest range I’ve seen in Sydney. I also saw an indoor yoga style for the first time (with 40% discount) which looked perfect for dancing, though I’d need to see how they would compare to my existing dance footwear. I don’t have the “Sprint” model, and think this might be a good choice for my next pair, I’m very tempted.

I found a good sale on Vibrams in Sydney today…

If your toes do happen to all be exactly the same length, I could do you a great deal on a second hand pair of VFF’s. Unworn…

Have you found any good deals on Vibrams in Australia and New Zealand? Have you found a great stockist with lots of choice? Have you managed to get any “real” ones shipped here at a good price? I’d love to hear your tips in the comments below.

Where to Find Vibrams in Australia (Without Paying a Fortune)

If you’re looking for affordable Vibram FiveFingers in Australia, there are a few places to keep an eye on. Outdoor retailers like Adventure Megastore occasionally run sales, and stores such as Wild Earth and Paddy Pallin sometimes carry discounted stock or discontinued models. It's worth signing up to their newsletters so you’re notified of flash sales.

Another option is to check overseas stores that ship to Australia. While postage and customs may add to the price, you can sometimes still get a better deal—especially if the Australian dollar is strong. Just make sure to buy from authorised retailers to avoid fakes.

Vibram shoes are growing in popularity in the barefoot and Paleo communities, and more Australian stockists are beginning to carry them. Whether you're after a pair for running, hiking, yoga or everyday use, doing a bit of research and price-checking can save you a significant amount.

Let me know in the comments if you've found a local bargain or discovered a stockist with a wide range of VFFs — let's help fellow barefoot fans find the best deals!

The Problem With Shoes

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I used to wear heels every day, and bigger heels at weekends. When I wasn't in heels I’d be wearing my supportive, shock absorbing, high-tech trainers. After a lot of running I ended up with shin splints, apparently cause by incorrect over pronation. My physio had some impressive equipment & software which took measurements of my running and feet, to create a pair of orthotics to put in my shoes. These forced my feet into the correct pronation.

Since I've been leading a Primal lifestyle, I became very interested in barefoot running.

At PrimalCon earlier this year I was fortunate enough to have a lesson with Barefoot Ted, which was an amazing experience. I'd never given much thought to running style before, so it was very eye opening. When you try to heel strike with bare feet it is not easy to do – yet when you wear trainers with lots of cushioning, it's easy – and lots of runners do heel strike. Running in shoes constricts the natural movement that your feet would otherwise take. Our ancestors had to hunt for their food and walk and run considerably more than then average office worker today. So it makes no sense that we now need to wear expensive high-tech shoes, in order to be able to run safely.

I now wear very soft soled ballet style shoes every day, and of course vibrams as often as I can the rest of the time. Since doing this I've noticed that my footprint has changed – indicating that I have managed to improve my pronation. I've had no leg or feet related injuries – despite now walking (with the occasional sprint) my daily 5km commute to and from work.

Vibrams are great practical way to go barefoot around the city. Tomorrow I'll share my tips about buying a reasonably priced pair in Australia.

The Science Behind Barefoot Benefits

Modern podiatry often encourages structured, supportive footwear. But the more we learn about biomechanics, the more it seems that less is often more when it comes to foot health. The human foot contains 26 bones, over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments, and is designed to move dynamically. Thick-soled trainers and structured shoes can inhibit this movement and weaken the muscles that help stabilise the foot.

By contrast, barefoot walking or wearing minimalist shoes allows your feet to flex, splay and respond to the ground naturally — just as they were intended to. This increases proprioception (your body’s sense of spatial awareness), strengthens foot muscles and encourages a more efficient walking and running pattern.

Transitioning to Barefoot Living Safely

While the benefits are compelling, it’s important to make the switch gradually. Most of us have spent years or decades in padded, restrictive footwear. Going barefoot full-time without preparation can place unfamiliar stress on muscles and tendons.

If you're starting out, follow these tips to transition safely:

Start indoors: Spend time barefoot at home before tackling outdoor terrain.
Begin with short walks: Try a barefoot walk on soft grass or sand before increasing distance or frequency.
Stretch and strengthen: Incorporate exercises like toe splaying, calf raises and towel scrunches to support your transition.
Listen to your body: Soreness is normal; sharp pain is not. Allow recovery time between barefoot sessions.

Common Foot Issues That Improve With Minimalist Shoes

Many people report significant improvements in foot health after switching to barefoot or minimalist shoes. Some of the most common conditions that benefit include:

Plantar fasciitis: Weak arch muscles often contribute to this condition. Strengthening the feet through barefoot walking can help reduce pain over time.
Bunions and hammertoes: These often stem from narrow, pointy shoes. Wide, natural-toe-box footwear can allow toes to return to their natural alignment.
Flat feet: Rather than relying on artificial arch support, training the intrinsic foot muscles can help restore the arch naturally.

Of course, individual results vary, and anyone with severe foot issues should consult a knowledgeable physiotherapist or sports podiatrist familiar with natural foot function.

Why Modern Shoes Might Be Making Things Worse

Traditional footwear often features raised heels, arch supports, toe spring, and cushioning that alters our natural gait. While these features may feel comfortable initially, they can compromise posture, create muscular imbalances, and lead to chronic injuries over time.

Heeled shoes, for instance, shift the body's centre of gravity forward, forcing the spine and hips to compensate — often resulting in back pain. Thick soles dull the sensory feedback from the ground, leading to inefficient movement and overstriding.

By stripping away these artificial features, barefoot shoes promote a more grounded, balanced way of moving — one that's aligned with how we evolved to walk and run.

Choosing the Right Minimalist Footwear

There are more barefoot and minimalist shoe options available now than ever before. While Vibrams remain iconic, many brands now offer more subtle or office-appropriate styles for everyday wear.

Key features to look for in barefoot-friendly footwear include:

Zero drop: No elevation between the heel and toe, which helps maintain natural posture.
Wide toe box: Allows the toes to splay and grip as they would naturally.
Thin, flexible sole: Encourages ground feel and responsiveness.
No arch support: Encourages the foot to work harder and grow stronger over time.

Brands like Vivobarefoot, Wildling Shoes, and Xero Shoes offer a wide variety of options to suit both urban and trail environments.

Incorporating Barefoot Time Into a Modern Life

While going completely barefoot in all environments may not be realistic, it’s easy to include more barefoot time into your routine. Here are some ideas:

Go barefoot at home as much as possible
Do your morning stretch or yoga routine with bare feet
Try short barefoot walks on safe natural surfaces like grass, sand or forest trails
Switch to minimalist footwear when commuting or on casual days

Over time, you may notice stronger feet, better balance, and fewer lower limb issues — all without expensive interventions or gadgets.

My Personal Experience With Barefoot Walking

One of the most surprising things I noticed was how much my gait changed. Instead of striking hard with my heels, I now land midfoot, with a softer, more fluid motion. My stride shortened slightly but became more efficient. I feel more connected to the ground, more stable, and more energised after walks.

Equally remarkable was how my posture improved. Without the artificial lift of heels or supportive soles, my hips naturally adjusted, and my shoulders felt more aligned. Walking 5km each way to work now feels less like a chore and more like a daily grounding ritual.

What the Research Says

Recent studies have begun to back up what many barefoot enthusiasts have long claimed. A 2016 study published in *Nature* found that barefoot populations had significantly lower incidences of flat feet, bunions, and other structural issues. Another study in the *Journal of Foot and Ankle Research* confirmed that minimalist footwear increased foot muscle strength and balance in adults over a 12-week period.

While more long-term studies are needed, the evidence is mounting in favour of a return to simpler footwear — or none at all.

Final Thoughts: Reclaiming Natural Movement

Adopting a barefoot or minimalist approach isn’t about throwing out all your shoes or running a marathon barefoot tomorrow. It’s about reconnecting with the way your body was designed to move and gradually undoing the damage caused by years of unnatural footwear.

Start slowly, be mindful of how your feet feel, and stay consistent. You might just find that walking — something you’ve done your whole life — becomes more enjoyable, empowering, and energising than ever before.

And if you’ve never tried Vibrams or similar footwear, there’s no better time to explore. Your feet might thank you for it.

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